TEENAGE recruits have become the first to sign up for a new police cadet team.

The first 14 youngsters from across County Durham were inducted into the cadets during a ceremony at Durham Police headquarters at Aykley Heads this evening (Tuesday, September 16).

The scheme, run by Durham Agency Against Crime, is being set up after the success of a similar scheme launched in Darlington six months ago.

It aims to give young people aged from 13 to 17 a practical understanding of policing and encourages them to be actively involved in their communities.

Cadets will now begin a programme of weekly educational workshops covering subjects such as law, general policing and citizenship.

The new recruits were welcomed by Durham’s chief constable Mike Barton and Alan Reiss, chief of staff from the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner’s office.

Bryan Russell, executive manager of Durham Agency Against Crime, said; “We are extremely proud to be running this fantastic new scheme which will enhance these young people and encourage their active participation in the community.

“The Police and Crime Commissioner, Ron Hogg has been a real supporter of the project which now covers the whole of the force area.”

Mr Reiss added: “These young cadets are an inspiration.

“I hope that the success of the pilot scheme in Darlington will continue across Durham, encouraging more young people to support their communities”.